Published and promoted by Paul Mercer, 58A Wards End, Loughborough LE11 3HBThis site only uses cookies in order to collect anonymous usage data for Google Analytics and StatCounter. By using this site we assume that you are happy to receive cookies.

One of the responsibilities of local Southfields councillor Paul Mercer (pictured with

Charnwood’s housing officers) in his capacity as lead member for housing on

Charnwood Borough Council has been to oversee the implementation of the

changes that will be required when the new Homelessness Reduction Act comes

into force on 3 April.

“The Act represents the most significant changes

to homelessness legislation in 20 years and

imposes on Charnwood several new duties which

have required staff to change their working

practices and required additional resources”,

commented Paul. “The aim of the act is to make

us more effective in tackling single homelessness

without undermining the rights that people

currently have under the existing system”.

In order to implement the Act, staff, partners and indeed Paul have undergone

training and he has had a meeting with the finance Lead Member, Tom Barkley, to

discuss the financial implications of the Act. Charnwood has also recruited two

additional Housing Options Officers and is also appointing a Social Lettings

Coordinator. It has introduced a new allocations partner and will need to work far